Last year I was already running on fumes. Decades spent as an editor in the relentless pace of London, Hong Kong and Dubai had exhausted me. What someone would call a midlife crisis, I saw as a necessary intervention – which led me straight to Thailand.
I began my reset in bustling Bangkok, but it was the quieter southern shores of Phuket where I truly found peace. My goal was to stop, reset and rebuild on my own terms.
Naturally, the most important question arose: how much does such freedom cost? My research – extensive searches of online forums and even consultations with AI assistants – consistently showed the same magic number.
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My biggest expense – rent – costs a fraction of what it used to
The mentioned magic amount is $1,500 per month (approx. PLN 5,550)to live comfortably in Thailand.
My first concern was where to live. I discovered that I could rent a studio apartment for as little as $200 (PLN 740) per month or splurge on a modern apartment for approx. 1 thousand hole. (PLN 3,700).
I chose a serviced apartment in a mid-range hotel in Kathu, a leafy suburban jungle-like area in Phuket, far from the tourist crowds of Patong.
His serviced apartment is located in a mid-range hotel in Kathu, a suburban district of Phuket
| Andre Neveling (private archive)
As a long-term resident, I pay approximately 13,000 baht, i.e $400 (PLN 1,480) monthly. The price includes all utilities, cleaning, high-speed Wi-Fi and access to amenities such as an infinity pool and gym. The rent changes slightly between high and low seasons, but on average it is similar.
The best thing is that I don't have a long-term contract – just a flexible two-week notice period when I decide to move out.
The serviced apartment offers access to amenities such as a swimming pool and gym
| Andre Neveling (private archive)
Convenience stores are a paradise for thrifty people
No day in Thailand is complete without a visit to 7-Eleven or Tops Daily. I came to the conclusion that everything you need to be happy, healthy and full can be found in a Thai convenience store. There I can fill my basket to the brim without worrying about the final bill.
I spend approx. on fresh fruit, yogurts, probiotics, vitamins, drinks, water and snacks. $10 (PLN 37) daily. I also top up my pre-paid phone here, which is expensive without expensive long-term contracts $10 (PLN 37) per month for unlimited calls and fast internet.
Transportation is cheap and easy
I simplified transport to a minimum. Instead of renting a motorbike for approx. $6 (PLN 22) daily, as many do in Phuket, I rely on Grab, a local ride-hailing app. A quick GrabBike trip to the beach costs money 1-2 dollars (PLN 3.70–7.40)and for longer journeys I order a car.
Since I work remotely and can walk to most places, I travel every other day, keeping transportation costs low and getting my steps in while doing so.
Food is a delicious deal
One of the greatest joys of living in Thailand is discovering that you can eat exceptionally well without spending a fortune. For someone who can barely boil an egg, this is life-changing.
A plate of pad thai from a street vendor costs approx. $2 (PLN 7.40). Nowadays, I also order through a food delivery app, which often has free delivery and promotions.
Restaurant meals – like papaya salad or spicy pork with basil – are delivered to your door for $3 (PLN 11.10). I don't think I've ever eaten so healthy and tasty – regardless of budget.
In total, I spend approx. $250 (PLN 925) per month – from fruit from the morning market to daily dinners delivered.
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My health and appearance are not expensive either
Staying fit and looking good in Phuket is easy and cheap. My local gym is a multi-level space with modern equipment and fitness classes.
I regularly go to Tabata and HIIT classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays and strength training in the afternoons. A standard monthly pass costs approx. $50 (PLN 185)but in August, my birthday month, I renewed my membership for six months $115 (PLN 425.50).
After training, I often treat myself to a regenerative massage – $10 (PLN 37) per hour. I also visit my favorite rock hairdresser twice a month – haircuts are expensive $9 (PLN 33.30).
Even treatments that I considered luxurious are at my fingertips. Korean Botox starts with $125 (PLN 462.50) for 50 units, proving that living on a budget doesn't mean sacrificing beauty—or vanity.
$1,500 enough for a comfortable and exciting life
Living in Phuket really is affordable, especially if you live the local way and avoid the tourist traps. When I count the main expenses – rent, daily shopping in convenience stores, food and transport – it comes to approx. $1,000 (PLN 3,700) monthly. This leaves plenty of room for extras, including weekend trips to nearby islands.
Weekend trip to Koh Phi Phi in Thailand
| Andre Neveling (private archive)
This budget not only allows you to live comfortably in Thailand, but also funds an exciting lifestyle in one of the most dynamic and hospitable countries in the world.
The above text is a translation from American edition of Business Insider
I’m Ashley Davis as an editor, I’m committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in every piece we publish. My work is driven by curiosity, a passion for truth, and a belief that journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse. I strive to tell stories that not only inform but also inspire action and conversation.
